What is EN ISO 13849-1:2015?

Introduction

EN ISO 13849-1:2015 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for the design and validation of safety-related parts of control systems. It is applicable to various industries, including manufacturing, automation, and machinery. This article aims to explain in simple terms what EN ISO 13849-1:2015 is and why it is important.

Key Concepts

EN ISO 13849-1:2015 focuses on the concept of "performance level" (PL), which represents the ability of a safety-related part of a control system to perform its intended safety function under foreseeable conditions. The standard defines five PLs, ranging from PL a (lowest) to PL e (highest). Each PL corresponds to a specific level of risk reduction and requires a certain level of reliability.

To determine the PL required for a system, a risk assessment is conducted according to the principles of EN ISO 12100:2010. This assessment considers factors such as severity of potential harm, frequency and duration of exposure, possibility of avoiding or limiting harm, and experience and training of operators. The higher the risk, the higher the required PL.

Safety Functions and Categories

EN ISO 13849-1:2015 also introduces the concept of "safety functions" and "categories." A safety function is a function of a machine or equipment that reduces the risk associated with a hazard. Examples include emergency stop functions and protective door functions. Each safety function is assigned to one of four categories, ranging from B (basic) to 4 (complex).

The category of a safety function indicates the extent to which the fault detection and avoidance measures have been implemented. Categories B and 1 provide basic safety requirements, while categories 3 and 4 offer more advanced features for complex applications. The selection of the appropriate category depends on the PL required and the complexity of the safety function.

Validation and Certification

To meet the requirements of EN ISO 13849-1:2015, the safety-related parts of a control system must undergo validation and verification processes. This involves conducting a range of tests and assessments to ensure that the PL and category requirements are met.

Once the validation process is complete, it is essential to document the results and provide evidence of conformity. Certification bodies can then assess the documentation and issue relevant certificates or reports, confirming compliance with EN ISO 13849-1:2015.

In conclusion, EN ISO 13849-1:2015 is a crucial standard for ensuring the safe operation of control systems. By defining performance levels, safety functions, and categories, it provides clear guidelines for designing and validating safety-related parts. Following this standard helps minimize risks and protect both workers and machines in various industries.